CHICO — “Location, location, location,” is the mantra of real estate salespersons. But what happens when that location happens to be undesirable and unwanted land in Florida? Then the mantra turns to, “decisions, decisions, decisions.”

Testosterone ran high last week when the all-male cast of “Glengarry Glen Ross” opened at Chico Cabaret.

Written by David Mamet, the dark, satirical comedy premiered in Chicago in 1984. It pokes fun at the real estate business, depicting salesmen as slick scam artist.

Director Jeff Dickenson also played one of the key roles, office manager John Williamson, responsible for the Premium Leads for buyers.

Phil Ruttenburg was Shelly Levene, a salesman down on his luck and trying to save his career. Don Eggert portrayed Dave Moss, an angry salesman determined to get even with the company.

William Saporito was George Aaronow, a timid and unsuccessful salesman. Rounding out the sales force was Steve Swim as Richard Roma, a cocky, loud-mouthed salesman.

Anthony Varicelli expertly played the role of a quiet, worried, brow-beaten buyer. Gary Besser was police detective Baylen.

“Glengarry Glen Ross” is set in Chicago in the early 1980s. The first act took place in a Chinese restaurant near the real estate office. During three scenes lengthy conversations between salesmen set the stage for their need of leads for potential buyers. Plotting began between two of them to burglarize the office, make off with the Premium Leads and sell them to a competing office.

The first act was harshly lighted, creating a somber mood. It was slow moving with lots of dialogue, but built the plot toward an active second act.

Ruttenburg, as the washed-up Shelly, entered bragging about making a huge sale and breaking his unlucky streak. Dickenson told him he had sold to notorious deadbeats. “They’re nuts,” he said. “They’re insane. They’re just like talking to salesmen.”

Everyone was suspected of a burglary the night before, and were questioned by Detective Baylen.

Swim, as the smug Roma, was furious when he learned he was scammed out of his big sales commission.

This violent, unpleasant atmosphere confronted Varicelli as the meek buyer Lingk. His distressed expression was almost laughable, but generated sympathy. “Glengarry Glen Ross” bordered on cruelty which can occur when desperate men are in competition for the same goal. It was full of colorful, explicit, harsh language and is recommended for mature audiences.

All of the fine actors gave expert performances of complex characterizations which allowed the audience to explore the dark side of salesmanship.

It is a rewarding treat for anyone who enjoys great story starring strong individuals.